Six Progressive Sonatinas for the Piano Forte, Op. 36 by Clementi

This first ever authoritative, error-free critical edition of these universally popular and pedagogically important sonatinas is the culmination of over two decades of study, research, and source acquisitions by Dr. Arthur Houle.
Based on every primary source - in particular, Clementi's little-known (but most reliable) 5th edition, "With Considerable Improvements" - this edition includes extensive scholarly footnotes on interpretation, creative possibilities, and performance practice.

A must-have for every pianist and teacher! Recordings by the editor available soon.

Reviews:

"Professor Houle...draws upon years of research combining his dedicated scholarship with droll wit. The heart of this edition, and its contribution to pedagogy, lies in the twenty pages of footnotes. These notes contain thought-provoking, historically informed directives for musical elements such as tempo, character, articulation, rhythm, and rubato... Expect to encounter some delightfully surprising twists, most noticeably in alterations of register and pitch... Considered as a scholarly, reference edition, this volume brings a renewed and inventive perspective to these standards. Houle provides an elucidative approach brimming with the joy of musical possibility."

July/August, 2018 Critical review in Clavier Companion by Ann DuHamel, DMA, NCMT________...a unique edition in every way, permeated with warm wit and enthusiasm....the most scholarly edition of these famous sonatinas...If teachers are looking for a way to excite pupils about authenticity then they could do no better than turn to Arthur Houle's Clementi project as a source of inspiration.​- London-based International Piano magazine: July/August, 2017 issue​ (full review)________

Arthur Houle's thoughtfully-crafted collation of all six editions of Clementi's Sonatinas Op. 36 includes an unusual amount of research-based and interesting background information. This will surely enable pianists to better understand not only the style and performance practices applicable to these important pedagogical works, but also to Clementi's many other neglected, more brilliant sonatas.

Brimming with erudition and wit, Arthur Houle's edition of Clementi's Op. 36 is a significant contribution to any pianophile's music shelf. Houle's unparalleled research has produced what must be considered the definitive, most comprehensive and reliable version of these pedagogical staples. Piano teachers will surely embrace this publication of works at the core of every piano student's repertoire.

- John Salmon, Professor of Music, University of North Carolina at Greensboro ________

Arthur Houle's new edition of the Clementi Opus 36 Sonatinas is a valuable contribution to the pianist's library. It is clear, user-friendly, exhaustive from a historical point of view, and approached with just the right combination of seriousness and whimsy. I highly recommend it to professionals and musical amateurs alike.

Dr. Houle's edition of Clementi’s Op. 36 combines meticulous research and solid pedagogy with an engaging preface that will delight students and teachers alike. This should be a new 'go-to' edition for those looking for a comprehensive score for these fantastic sonatinas.

This first-of-its kind Clementi edition is an essential volume for both piano students and their teachers. As a first-class educator, Mr. Houle offers a rare combination of solid scholarship and creativity, making his exploration of these fundamental studies not just useful, but stimulating.

- Stuart Isacoff, author of A Natural History of the Piano (Knopf) ________

What is different about this edition? Everything. Dr. Houle investigates minute details with a microscope. We experience a sense of history and gain an understanding of what makes these sonatinas great. Houle conveys that this isn’t a tedious exercise into a maze of musical markings. Rather, he communicates the joy of discovery and becomes our guide through this worthy labyrinth. Prepare yourself for lightning bolts of revelation.